Pruning hydrangeas can seem a bit tricky, but understanding the type of hydrangea you have and its blooming cycle will guide you in the right direction. In Durham, NC, the timing and method for pruning will depend on whether your hydrangea blooms on old wood or new wood.
Common Types of Hydrangeas
- Bigleaf Hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla): These are often the classic hydrangeas you see in gardens, with large, rounded flower heads. They typically bloom on old wood, meaning the buds form on stems that grew the previous year.
- Panicle Hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata): Known for their cone-shaped blooms, panicle hydrangeas usually bloom on new wood, which means the buds form on stems that grew in the current growing season.
Pruning Based on Blooming Wood
1. Bigleaf Hydrangeas (Old Wood)
- When to Prune: Prune right after the blooming period, usually in late summer to early fall. This timing ensures you don’t cut off the buds that will form next year’s flowers.
- How to Prune: Remove spent blooms and any dead or weak stems. Shape the plant to improve air circulation, but avoid heavy pruning. You can also cut back the stems to the first set of healthy buds if the plant needs rejuvenation.
2. Panicle Hydrangeas (New Wood)
- When to Prune: Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This is because panicle hydrangeas bloom on the new growth that emerges in the spring.
- How to Prune: Cut back the stems to the desired shape, and remove any dead or damaged wood. You can be more aggressive with pruning compared to bigleaf hydrangeas, as the plant will produce new growth and blooms on the current year’s shoots.
General Pruning Tips
- Tools: Use sharp, clean pruners or loppers. Ensure they’re sterilized to prevent disease.
- Technique: Always make cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a bud or leaf node. This helps the plant heal and encourages new growth.
- Shape and Health: Focus on maintaining a balanced shape and removing any crossing branches that may hinder airflow.
Local Considerations
In Durham, NC, the climate can impact the exact timing for pruning. Given our mild winters, you might have a bit of flexibility, but following the above guidelines will help ensure your hydrangeas thrive and bloom beautifully.
Feel free to visit us at For Garden’s Sake, a local garden center in Durham for additional tips and advice tailored to the specific varieties available in your area.
Visit us at: For Garden’s Sake
9197 NC HWY 751 Durham, NC 27713
Call us at (919) 484-9759 or text us at (919) 530-9643